Growing real roots thanks to an artifical Christmas tree

Rachel
December 12, 2014
11:01 pm

Tonight, my family and I headed to a local outdoor shopping area for dinner and to see the 250,000 LED lights on a 60-foot tall artificial Christmas tree put on a show to the music of Mannheim Steamroller. This was our fourth year of doing exactly that, and it’s become a happy holiday tradition for us. Watching that dazzling display, I found myself reflecting on the roots we’ve been growing, both literally and figuratively, in this community.

Interestingly, as we watched the growing artificial Christmas tree light up, I couldn’t help but think about how our traditions, like this tree, have become more deeply rooted. We’ve been in our house and community for just over three years, and it feels like we’ve established real roots, supported by the continuity of these cherished holiday moments.

For us, this tradition has been a small but significant anchor. Traditions like these, according to the Journal of Family Psychiatry, are essential for fostering parenting competence, child adjustment, and marital satisfaction. It’s a comforting reminder that sometimes, even an artificial growing Christmas tree can symbolize something very real: the bonds we cultivate through shared experiences.

While standing in the chilly 34-degree weather, we joked about how this year’s tree felt smaller, despite being the same towering size. Perhaps it’s because, like the artificial Christmas tree, we’ve grown taller together as a family. Over the years, we’ve gone through different homes, but these traditions have been constant, offering us a sense of stability, familiarity, and growth, even in a world that’s always changing.

The artificial tree show hasn’t changed in the past four years, and while I briefly considered whether it should, I quickly reminded myself of the value in that familiarity. Traditions and continuity can give us a grounding sense of place, much like the real roots we’ve grown in this community over time.

The Eco-Friendly Side of Artificial Christmas Trees

In recent years, artificial trees have come under scrutiny for their environmental impact, raising the question: are artificial trees better for the environment? While growing a real Christmas tree is undeniably beneficial for ecosystems, there are valid reasons to consider an eco friendly artificial Christmas tree. Made from non-toxic materials, some artificial Christmas trees are designed with sustainability in mind.

The process of making an artificial Christmas tree involves using PVC and metal, materials that can be recycled or reused if disposed of responsibly. Moreover, because artificial trees can be reused for several years, they may reduce the need to cut down real trees annually, making them an attractive choice for families concerned with sustainability. When considering whether artificial Christmas trees are better for the environment, it’s important to think about longevity and the possibility of recycling at the end of their life.